The court hearing in the case involving Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II concluded shortly after it began. Judge Hakob Manukyan, who was presiding over the closed session, recused himself, withdrawing from the proceedings.
Attorney Ara Zohrabyan explained that the recusal was prompted by a previous professional connection between the judge and the Chamber of Advocates, as Zohrabyan had personally issued Manukyan’s legal practice license in the past. Zohrabyan welcomed the judge's decision, noting that it would help avoid any potential conflicts of interest. It is currently unknown when a new judge will be appointed or when the next hearing will take place.
Following the session, Karekin II exited the courthouse and, accompanied by supporters, began a march toward the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. Deputies from the "Strong Armenia" and "Armenia" factions had also gathered near the court. Deputy Aram Vardevanyan characterized the ongoing process as illegal, emphasizing that ecclesiastical matters should not become a subject for judicial prosecution.
The case concerns the alleged obstruction of the execution of a court order. The charges arose after the Mother See refused to reinstate a defrocked clergyman, Gevorg, despite a corresponding court ruling. The Church views this as an interference in its autonomy, while investigative bodies classify it as a failure to comply with a legal act.
This event highlights how delicate and complex church-state relations become when legal disputes enter the spiritual domain. The judge's recusal, while formally based on the principle of impartiality, effectively stalls the case, creating uncertainty regarding future developments.
It is noteworthy that the parties view the issue from entirely different perspectives. While law enforcement agencies focus on the technical aspects of executing a judicial act, the Church views it as a matter of defending its own autonomy. This contradiction ensures that any further proceedings in the case will remain at the center of public attention for some time.
